Even though most chimneys are designed to last for decades, they still have a few key parts that will need to be replaced at regular intervals. That includes the liner, an important component that is designed to prevent damage to your home and reduce your risk of unnecessary health complications.
An Overview of Liners
Most modern liners are nothing more than a metal duct that fits directly inside the chimney itself. Those liners can also be made from clay and a few other materials, but most experts prefer to use metal liners because they are easier to install and much more durable. It is also important to note that chimney liners are a legal requirement in many locations, and failing to have that safety feature in your home could result in fines.
Benefits of a Liner
There are quite a few reasons why most new fireplaces now come with a thick liner, and that includes the structural integrity of the chimney. The liner will prevent the heat and airborne contaminants from damaging the chimney itself as well as the rest of the nearby building materials in your home. A liner also limits excess moisture from building up in the chimney, and that is going to reduce your risk of a mold outbreak.
When to Replace Your Liner
While every situation is different, most homeowners should plan on replacing their chimney liners at least once every 15 or 20 years. If you use your fireplace quite a bit or the chimney has been damaged, then you might need to replace the liner much sooner than that. It is also recommended that you install a new chimney liner if you live in an older home that didn’t come with one originally.
The Replacement Process
A reputable chimney repair company should be able to reline your chimney in just a few hours as long as additional repairs and services aren’t needed. The team will most likely remove some of the old materials from the top and bottom of the chimney before simply sliding the new liner in place. The liner and all of the nearby components can then be cemented down with a product that was designed for high temperatures.
Relining your chimney might seem like an overwhelming project, but that simple upgrade could help you avoid quite a few headaches down the road. A high-quality liner is going to keep your family safe for many years to come and protect your chimney from many different types of damage.
